Matzo Crackers Recipe (Matzah)

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Hi Bold Bakers!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE: This Matzo Crackers Recipe is straightforward, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.  

• Minimal Ingredients: Just 3 pantry staples plus water.
• Easy Prep: Only 25 minutes of hands-on time.
• Crunchy & Delicious: Light, crispy texture that’s hard to beat.
• Customizable: Add herbs or seasoning for extra flavor.

There are many delicious kosher-for-Passover matzahs available in stores—but if you’d like to enjoy a different type of matzah (not during Passover, if you observe), you have to try these olive oil matzah crackers! And don’t miss out my 3-Ingredient Flatbread recipe, Carta Di Musica Recipe, 4-Ingredient Water Crackers Recipe, and Make Keto Crackers.

Bold Bakers Loved This!

“I never thought I could make matzah crackers at home! The olive oil adds such a nice touch, and the texture is spot-on. These are perfect for snacks any time of the year!” — Rachel S.

“This recipe is a game-changer! I love how easy it is to make, and my family couldn’t stop eating them. We paired them with some homemade hummus, and it was amazing!” — David M.

I appreciate the detailed instructions and tips, especially about the kosher requirements. It’s nice to have a homemade option for matzah that we can enjoy outside of Passover too!” — Sarah L.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 12/4/2024, to include explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make ahead and storage instructions, serving options, and Pro Chef Tips.

Table of Contents

• What is Matzah?
• What You Need To Make Matzah Flatbread
• Key Ingredient and Kosher Substitutes
• How to Make Homemade Matzo
• Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips For Making Matzah Crackers
• Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
• What do You Serve Matzah With?
• Make More Bread!

What Is Matzah?

Matzo Crackers (also spelled matza, matzah, or matzoh) are a type of unleavened bread traditionally eaten during Passover. These crackers are thin, crunchy, and often enjoyed as a snack or part of a larger meal.

• Unleavened: Made without yeast or rising agents.
• Symbolic: Represents the hasty departure of the Israelites from Egypt.
• Simple Ingredients: Typically made from just flour and water, though variations may include olive oil or seasoning.
• Passover Tradition: Eaten during Passover, but enjoyed year-round in various forms.

History of Matzo Crackers:

• Matzo crackers have a deep historical and religious significance, particularly during Passover, a major Jewish holiday. During this time, many Jewish families observe the Passover seder, a central ritual in which unleavened bread, or matzah, is consumed. According to the Torah, on the first of the seven days of Passover, all leaven must be removed from the house, and matzah serves as the only type of “bread” that Jews may eat during this period.
• While matzo crackers are traditionally made with simple ingredients, for it to be considered kosher, the entire process—from the harvesting of the wheat to the baking—must be supervised by a Rabbi. Additionally, kosher matzah must be baked in under 18 minutes  (18 is a holy number in Judaism), from the moment water touches the flour to when the dough comes out of the oven.

Please note that this recipe is not kosher for Passover. Although this homemade olive oil matzah cracker recipe doesn’t meet those kosher standards, it’s a delicious alternative that can be enjoyed year-round, not just during Passover!

What You Need To Make Olive Oil Matzah

• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Key Ingredients and Kosher Substitutes of Matzo Recipe

All-purpose flour

• Works as the base of the dough, providing structure and texture to the crackers.
• Binds the ingredients together and gives the crackers their firm, crunchy texture.
• Kosher Substitute: Whole wheat flour (ensure it is certified kosher), spelt flour, or kosher-certified gluten-free flour.

Water

• Hydrates the flour and helps form the dough.
• Makes the dough pliable and easy to roll out.
• Kosher Substitutes: No substitute. But ensure the water used doesn’t come into contact with chametz (leavened products) or non-kosher items.

Olive oil

• Adds richness and flavor, making the crackers tender.
• Contributes to the golden color and crispiness after baking.
• Kosher Substitute: Any kosher-certified oil such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or even kosher margarine (if preferred for dietary needs).

Salt

• Enhances the flavor of the crackers.
• Balances the richness of the olive oil and the neutral flavor of the flour.
• Kosher Substitute: Kosher salt or sea salt (certified kosher).

How to Make Homemade Matzo Crackers

Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips For Making Matzah Crackers

• Even though these are not kosher for Passover, you can enjoy them like you would any other cracker!
• The dough is very easy to roll out—be sure you roll them as thin as possible for the best-finished texture.
• You can sprinkle a bit of flakey sea salt on your matzah crackers before baking if you wish. 
• If you prefer a whole wheat matzah cracker, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Add a 1/2 teaspoon of crushed, dried herbs, like thyme, oregano, or rosemary, with the flour for a little extra flavor!

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions for Matzo Crackers:

Make-Ahead:

• You can prepare the dough for the matzo crackers ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe through the shaping and cutting steps, then wrap the dough in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, roll out and bake as instructed.

Storage:

• Once baked, store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. The crackers should stay crisp and fresh.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the crackers in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

These crackers they maintain their crisp texture even after being stored for several days!

What do You Serve Matzah With?

Matzah can be served with a variety of accompaniments, depending on the occasion or personal preference. Here are some ideas for what to serve with matzah:

For Passover Seder:

1. Charoset – A sweet mixture of apples, nuts, wine, and spices, symbolizing the mortar used by the Israelites in slavery.
2. Karpas – A vegetable, typically parsley, dipped in salt water to symbolize the tears of the Israelites.
3. Maror – Bitter herbs, often horseradish, representing the bitterness of slavery.
4. Chazeret – Additional bitter herbs, usually romaine lettuce, served as part of the ritual.
5. Gefilte Fish – A traditional Jewish dish, often served as a first course during the seder.
6. Lamb Shank Bone – Representing the sacrificial lamb from the first Passover.
7. Egg – Symbolizing the cycle of life and renewal.

For Snacks or General Use:

1. Hummus – A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice.
2. Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon – A classic pairing for a delicious and simple snack.
3. Avocado – Spread on matzah for a quick, healthy bite.
4. Peanut Butter and Jelly – A familiar and comforting pairing with matzah for a quick snack.
5. Cheese – Pair with soft cheese like goat cheese, ricotta, or a variety of other cheeses.
6. Olive Tapenade – A Mediterranean olive spread that pairs wonderfully with matzah.
7. Salsa and Guacamole – Perfect for dipping matzah into, especially if you’re looking for a savory snack.

Make More Bread from Scratch!

• 3-Ingredient Flatbread
• Sourdough Starter Guide
• Perfectly Crusty Sourdough Loaf For Beginners
• No-Knead Whole Wheat Bread
• White Sandwich Bread
• Hearty No-Yeast Bread

IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 12/4/2024, to include explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make ahead and storage instructions, serving options, and Pro Chef Tips.

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